Iris Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Iris Dahabiya Nile Cruise – A Refined Journey Through Egypt’s Timeless Nile Scenery
Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Nile aboard the Iris Dahabiya Nile Cruise, an intimate and elegant way to explore the timeless landscapes and ancient treasures of Upper Egypt. Designed for travelers looking for a more relaxed alternative to large Nile cruise ships, the Dahabiya offers a peaceful sailing experience combined with comfortable accommodation and personalized service.
Sail through the beautiful Nile Valley between Luxor and Aswan, enjoying spectacular views of traditional villages, palm-lined riverbanks, desert landscapes, and peaceful Nile islands. Depending on your selected itinerary, discover some of Egypt's most remarkable ancient sites, including Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Gebel El-Silsila, and El Kab.
Beyond the famous monuments, the Iris Dahabiya experience allows you to enjoy a closer connection with local life along the Nile. Stop at small villages and quiet islands, relax on deck while watching the scenery pass by, and enjoy peaceful evenings anchored away from the busy atmosphere of larger cruise ships.
With freshly prepared meals, comfortable cabins, and the timeless charm of traditional Nile sailing, the Iris Dahabiya Nile Cruise offers a memorable combination of relaxation, culture, history, and authentic Egyptian hospitality.
Cruise itinerary
1Embarkation in Aswan – Kom Ombo Temple
Upon arrival at the meeting point in Aswan, you will be welcomed and transferred to the Dahabiya for check-in. Begin your 3-day Nile sailing experience from Aswan to Esna with a peaceful journey along the Nile.
Your first stop will be a charming Nile island, where you can take a leisurely walk through the surrounding countryside and experience the authentic atmosphere of rural Egypt. Enjoy lunch either onboard the Dahabiya or on the island before continuing your sailing journey.
In the afternoon, sail toward Kom Ombo and visit the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Horus the Elder (Haroeris). Explore its well-preserved halls, reliefs, and ancient inscriptions while learning about the temple's religious significance and connection to the natural cycles of the Nile.
After the visit, return to the Dahabiya and continue sailing toward Gebel el-Silsila, where the vessel will anchor for the night.
2Gebel el-Silsila – Edfu Temple
Start your morning with breakfast onboard as the Dahabiya continues sailing along one of the most peaceful stretches of the Nile.
Arrive at Gebel el-Silsila, an important ancient sandstone quarry site that supplied building materials for many of Egypt's greatest temples and monuments. Explore the impressive rock-cut chapels and monuments associated with rulers including Horemheb, Seti I, Ramses II, and Merenptah, while enjoying the beautiful scenery surrounding the Nile.
Continue sailing toward Edfu, home to one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Visit the magnificent Temple of Horus, built during the Ptolemaic period and dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. Admire its monumental entrance, detailed reliefs, towering columns, and beautifully preserved inscriptions.
In the evening, return to the Dahabiya and sail to a peaceful Nile island, where the vessel will anchor for the night. Enjoy dinner onboard or beside a cozy bonfire along the riverbank, surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of the Nile.
3El Kab – Sailing to Esna
After breakfast, continue your journey toward El Kab, the ancient city of Nekheb and one of the oldest settlements along the Nile.
Explore the archaeological remains of this historic site, including its ancient temples, mudbrick structures, and beautifully decorated rock-cut tombs. Discover the history of El Kab and its importance as a religious and administrative center in ancient Egypt.
After the visit, return to the Dahabiya and continue sailing toward Esna. Relax onboard and enjoy the changing scenery of the Nile as your journey gradually comes to an end.
Spend your final night onboard the Dahabiya.
4Disembarkation in Esna – Transfer to Luxor
Enjoy your final breakfast onboard the Dahabiya while taking in the peaceful Nile views.
After breakfast, complete the check-out and disembark in Esna. You will then be transferred to Luxor, where your Nile sailing experience comes to an end.
Prices per person, double cabin
3 or 4 nights
FromLuxor - Aswan
Prices are per person sharing a double cabin. Single supplements and peak-date surcharges (Christmas, New Year) may apply — confirmed on enquiry.
Included & excluded
Included
- Private Egyptologist guide for all Tours
- Private air-conditioned vehicle transfers throughout
- 3 / 4 nights full-board accommodation aboard a traditional Dahabiya
- Entrance fees to all sites listed in the itinerary
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Bottled water during tours, transfers, and onboard
- All taxes and service charges
Not included
- Entry visa to Egypt
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.)
- Optional tours or activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinks during meals unless specified
- Tipping for guides, crew, and drivers
- Travel insurance
Ship features & facilities
Pricing, booking & policies
Price Policy
Cancellation Policy
Refund Policy
Children Policy
Other Dahabiya Nile cruises
| Cruise | Category | Duration | Sailing days | Board | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iris DahabiyaThis cruise | Dahabiya | 3 or 4 nights | Aswan: Friday · Esna: Monday | Full board | $2,200 | |
| 4 Night Dahabiya Nile Cruise Esna to Aswan | Dahabiya | 4 Nights | — | Full board | $1,965 | View |
| 5 Night Dahabiya Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan | Dahabiya | 5 Nights | — | Full board | $2,365 | View |
| Akhnaton Dahabiya | Dahabiya | 3 Nights / 4 Nights / 7 Nights | — | Full board | $2,600 | View |
| Farouz El Nil Dahabiya | Dahabiya | 5 Nights / 7 Nights | — | Full board | $2,500 | View |